From work to weddings: How to navigate a super strict dress code

Navigating strict dress codes: Beach Formal

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

What may seem to be the biggest contradiction in dressing (Beachy?! Formal?!) proves to be rather fun when pairing a chic dress with quirky, seasonal accessories. READ MORE: Spice up your summer with these 20 midi skirts

Navigating strict dress codes: Brixton

Navigating strict dress codes: White Tie

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

An elegant affair doesn't have to be dull: Invest in a classic column dress and show off your charm with refined yet fun details. READ MORE: Exclusive! Here's what Kendall Jenner has to say about her Topshop collab with Kylie

Navigating strict dress codes: Olympia Le-Tan

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: theoutnet.com

Olympia Le-Tan You and Your Marriage embroidered clutch ($940 USD), at theoutnet.com. READ MORE: How to pull off the retro look at work

Navigating strict dress codes: Black Tie

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

A chic, ankle-grazing gown in a refined and complexion-friendly hue will compel you to keep the shine alive with feminine, shimmering accessories. READ MORE: 10 ways to wear your Oxford shirt life a celebrity

Navigating strict dress codes: Dorothy Perkins

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: Hudson's Bay

Dorothy Perkins emerald maxi ($122), at thebay.com. READ MORE: 30 best flats you can buy now and wear all summer long

Navigating strict dress codes: Semi-Formal

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

For events that call for semi-formal dress, opt for fun-friendly attire. A danceable pair of heels is a must, and so is sticking with a trusty printed dress. Banish black for the evening: It's time to celebrate! READ MORE: Your ultimate guide to the best summer party dresses

Navigating strict dress codes: At the Office

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

New job? In need of a sartorial re-set button? Strict office environments may mean different rules, but that doesn't mean you can't have a little fun, too. Choosing exciting, wear-forever labels with edgy detailing and trendy silhouettes will work wonders on your confidence, and it won't hurt your A-game, either. READ MORE: 29 ways to make pastels edgy this summer

Navigating strict dress codes: Adam Lippes

Navigating strict dress codes: Casual

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

From beach to ballroom, a casual summer event reads one thing: laid back. Feel your best in a breezy maxi dress and trendy gladiator flats – perfect for dancing, walking and having a blast. READ MORE: How to wear a crop top like Kendall Jenner

Navigating strict dress codes: Date Night

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

A spiced-up date night calls for elements of elegance infused with effortless personal style. We're obsessed with cutouts this season: Take a page from our style book or rock the trend your way. READ MORE: Forever 21 teams up with Langley Fox Hemingway for an exclusive cool-girl collab

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Navigating strict dress codes: Business casual

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Madison Schill
Source: ELLE Canada

The trickiest to de-code, business casual often calls for dressier fare than one would think. Cover the majority of your foot with a d'orsay heel, and keep a cardigan around as an option for cooler, dressier days. READ MORE: 13 songs from the Spring 2015 runways to add to your playlist